Carolina Panthers Release Cam Newton

Former MVP to hit the free-agent market

Newton benched for remainder of 2021 season after struggles

The Carolina Panthers have released quarterback Cam Newton, the team announced Monday. The move comes after Newton was benched for the remainder of the 2021 season following a string of poor performances.

Newton was the Panthers' starting quarterback for nine seasons, leading the team to a Super Bowl appearance in 2015. He was named the NFL's Most Valuable Player that season after throwing for 3,837 yards and 35 touchdowns.

However, Newton's production has declined in recent years. He threw for just 2,209 yards and 16 touchdowns in 15 games last season, and he has struggled mightily in 2021, completing just 54.8% of his passes for 684 yards and four touchdowns with five interceptions.

The Panthers have turned to rookie quarterback Sam Darnold as their starter for the remainder of the season. Darnold has thrown for 1,712 yards and 11 touchdowns with nine interceptions in eight games this season.

Newton's release is a significant development for the Panthers, who are now likely to be in the market for a new quarterback in 2022. Newton, meanwhile, will likely draw interest from several teams in need of a veteran quarterback.